City break packing list: what to pack for 3 to 4 days

A city break is 80 percent walking. Pack for feet first, then for one dinner, then for weather. The rest takes care of itself.

The formula for 3 to 4 days

1 top per day, 2 bottoms, 1 layer, 2 pairs of shoes at most.

Worked example for 4 days (round numbers):

• Tops: 4, all matching
• Bottoms: 2, such as trousers and a skirt or dark jeans
• Layer: 1, a jacket or cardigan
• Underwear and socks: 5 sets
• Shoes: walking shoes on your feet, 1 nicer pair only if you have a dinner planned
• Day bag: 1 small, zip closing

Everything needs to go with everything else. Two or three colours is enough.

The shoe rule

You may walk more than you expect. Some cities top 15,000 steps a day with sightseeing. Wear shoes you have already walked in, with room for socks. New shoes on day one is the classic mistake. Pack blister plasters.

The day bag rule

Carry only what you need for the day: phone, wallet, water, a layer. A crossbody bag or a small backpack worn in front is harder to snatch than an open tote. Leave valuables in the hotel safe if there is one.

What to wear for evenings

One simple evening change is enough: a clean top and a layer. Dark colours look smart and hide spills. For dress codes at restaurants or events, see the wedding dress code guide for the levels, which also help for dinners.

What to leave at home

• A third pair of shoes
• A laptop, unless you need it
• Big jewellery
• Heavy guidebooks (use your phone)
• An outfit for every possible plan

You will be fine without all of these.

If it goes wrong

Sore feet by day two? Change socks, add a plaster and rest an hour. Rain? Buy a cheap umbrella and keep going. Weather colder than expected? Buy one layer. A scarf or hat is cheap and quick. For a longer trip, use the 10-day carry-on list.

A per-trip-length table for city trips

Counts are a starting point. Adjust to the weather and to how many evenings you plan to go out.

For a week or more, you may want to wash once. See laundry on the road.

Plan the day, not the outfit

City days run in a loop: morning walk, a museum or shop, lunch, more walking, rest, dinner. One outfit covers all of it if it is comfortable and not too casual. Pick a base outfit for the day and change one thing for dinner: a top, or a scarf, or shoes.

Ruling: one outfit plus one change per day.

Safety and small stuff

• Keep a copy of your passport and booking in your phone.
• Carry only one card and a little cash.
• Zip your bag and keep it in front of you in crowded places.
• Know the address of your hotel in the local language if you can.

These are general tips. Check local advice from your government or the destination's tourism or police pages before you go.